Warren Truss Deputy Prime Minister Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Tony Pasin Federal Member for Barker Stephen Mullighan SA Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Richard Sage Mayor of District Council of Grant Joint Media Statement 9 October 2015 Upgraded Port MacDonnell marine facility opens today A MULTIMILLION dollar upgrade of Port MacDonnell’s marine facilities will help ensure the region’s fishing and other marine businesses continue to thrive for years to come. The Australian Government has contributed $726,127 towards the project, the South Australian Government $1.875 million and the District Council of Grant $146,216. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the project demonstrated the Australian Government’s support for regional productivity and development. “We are supporting projects just like this one through our Community Development Grants Programme, which will invest $350 million in much needed infrastructure projects throughout Australia,” Mr Truss said. Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the upgrade will underpin the region’s future economic growth. “Port MacDonnell’s tourism appeal relies heavily on marine sports and activities, and the region has a predicted 15 per cent growth in tourism, services and recreational fishing in the 12 months following this upgrade,” Mr Pasin said. “Widening the boat ramp to four lanes and upgrading it to accommodate large commercial and recreational marine vessels has doubled its capacity and made it safer and quicker for users. “The two floating concrete pontoons added to the boat ramp will also allow for the handling of heavy tonnage vessels, with visitors from across South Australia and Western Victoria among those to benefit from these improvements. “As the gateway to South Australia, these works will ensure Port MacDonnell maintains its strong reputation as being a must-see destination for water sport and fishing enthusiasts.” South Australian Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Stephen Mullighan said Port MacDonnell has the largest lobster fishing fleet in Australia, and fishing and marine activities are critical to the economic and social wellbeing of the town.

“This restoration project not only ensures the marine infrastructure meets the needs of the fishing and rock lobster industries and recreational boaters, but it also improves the amenity of the foreshore area,” Mr Mullighan said.

Mayor of District Council of Grant Richard Sage said the marina’s fuelling facility had been relocated and the jetty refurbished for the benefit of beachgoers and recreational fishers.

“The relocation of the fuelling facility from the jetty to the wharf will also give members of the public greater access to a township fuel supply, as well as reduce the risk of environmental pollution,” Cr Sage said.

“This project has been six years in the making, and we are pleased the construction phase has been delivered on time and under budget.”